Once a year, Mount Calvary Baptist Church explodes into the community by going against stereotypes.

"We do this to give back to the community," said the Rev. Lamont Littlejohn, Mount Calvary pastor. "I want people to see that a church is an entity that gives, not takes."

Mount Calvary, 422 Carolina Ave., Shelby, started the annual summertime Community Explosion 11 years ago. It is a totally free event held on the church's property and in the street, Littlejohn said.

"We have carnival rides, food, entertainment and other activities for smaller children," he said.

A car show is a new addition this year, and entertainment will be provided by gospel groups, a gospel rapper, choirs and dance teams. Local businesses will also provide information.

The event will be from 3-9 p.m. July 20.

"We set aside this day in the summer; we budget for it," Littlejohn said. "Our whole congregation comes together to give back. There's nothing like seeing the smiles on kidsí faces and seeing the cheerful faces of the adults."